FERNDALE — The Lake County Parks & Trails Division will be conducting a winter bird census on Saturday, Dec. 3 from 7 to 11 a.m. at the Ferndale Preserve, located at 19220 County Road 455 in Ferndale.

Naturalists of all abilities are encouraged to help Lake County park rangers monitor the status and trends of bird populations in the preserve.

“Bird species expecting to make an appearance include the beautiful but elusive Painted Bunting, as well as the Grasshopper Sparrow and Bald Eagle,” said Gallus Quigley, Park Ranger and Biologist with the Parks & Trails Division. “The weather should be ideal and should result in seeing a variety of beautiful birds at the park.”

The 192-acre preserve is on the western shore of Lake Apopka and has a combined equestrian and hiking trail that offers stunning vistas of Lake Apopka and the surrounding areas. The activity may include hiking over uneven or difficult terrain for a distance of over 2 miles.

Participants are asked to bring binoculars and field guides for the hike, and are encouraged to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat and hiking shoes. Reservations are encouraged, but not required.